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DEDICATrOX OF THE SITE OF 

OLD FORT SCHUYLER, Z3 

Utioa, July 4, 1SB3. 



The propriety of suitably clesigiiating the site of Old Fort 
Schuyler, the first white name of Utica, was brought to the 
attention of the Oneida Historical Society by its President, Ex- 
Governor Seymour, at the meeting of April 6, ]881, and after 
some discussion in regard to the actual site and the memorial to 
mark it, the matter was referred to a special committee for con- 
sideration and future report. At the meeting of September 7, 
1881, the question of locality was further discussed, and it was 
resolved to consult the older residents of the city, and also to 
make personal examinations of the site. Both were done, and the 
result was the conclusion that the site in question was near the 
junction of Ballou's creek with the Mohawk (Can-ne-o-ga-ha-ka-lon- 
non-i-ta-de) river, in the block bounded by Main and Second streets 
and the river and creek. 

The difficulty of determining with certainty the precise location 
of whatever constituted this fort, is another illustration of the 
speed with which uncertainty gathers over the materials for 
history. From its construction in 1758 to the beginning of this 
century, the original Fort Schuyler was the chief and almost only 
physical fact known as to what is now Utica. It was the stopping 
place here alike of troops and travelers, and continued to be the 
only one for several years after the close of the Revolutionary 
war. The pioneer settlers found it here and named their handet 
after it. The real fort itself was doubtless as well known to 
every resident of Old Fort Schuyler in 1800, as is the City Hall 
to the present inhabitants of Utica. And from that time to this 
there has been a continuous succession here of the descendants of 
those early settlers, who would naturally be assumed to be reliable 



162 OLD FORT SCHUYLER. 

witnesses to establish the site of the ohi fort beyond a per- 
adventure. 

That the fort was within the limits above mentioned, including 
a space of some six hundred feet on Main street, from Second 
street eastward to the creek bank and thence along the creek and 
river to the line of Second street, is unquestioned. Brodhead's 
map of 1810 shows that Ballou's creek, though some distance east 
of Third at Main street, turns westward and enters the Mohawk 
but two hundred feet east of Second street. In what section of 
this plat of 600 by 400 feet, at its widest, the fort stood, or 
whether it occupied a large share of the whole of it, is the 
conundrum for the Historical Society. 

The printed authorities, so far as known, locate the fort near 
Second street. Thus, Bagg's "Pioneers of Utica," 1877, says: 
" This fort was situated on the south bank (of the Mohawk) 
a very little distance southeast of the present intersection of 
Second street and the Central railroad." Jones's "Annals of 
Oneida County," 1851, says: "It stood between Main street and 
the Mohawk, just below Second street." Harrington's "Utica 
Directory," 1828, says: "The village was called Old Fort 
Schuyler from a fort, the ruins of which are slightly visible, north 
of Main and east of Second streets, near their junction." 

But the majority of the living authorities consulted, located the 
ruins of the old fort, (several declaring they had seen them,) further 
eastward and in rear of the brick Methodist Church built in 1816, 
on the northeast corner of Main and Third streets, and destroyed 
by fire after 1850. ■ 

Tlie tracks and appurtenances of the New York Central 
Railroad now almost completely cover the actual site of 
the old fort. The nearest available ground for the proposed 
monument was found to be a small triangular piece, near the 
soutlieast corner of Maui and Tliird streets, a remnant left 
between those streets and Park avenue, lying about opposite the 
site of the old church and 100 feet or so west of the tall 
chimney of the City Mill, now Machine Works. It was, indeed, 
suggested that the chimney might be designated as a ready made 



TWA-DAH-AH-LO-DAH-QUE.' 



163 



and readily seen memorial of the fort. Application was made to 
the Common Couticil to devote tlie desired plat to the intended 
purpose: the application was ji^ranted and the ground formally set 
over to the society, as reported at its annual meetiuir January 3, 
1882. A suitable foundation was laid and the groinid proj)erly 
graded, under the direction and at the expense of Vice-President 
Hutchinson, who donated the work to the society; and at its 
meeting. May 8, 1883, it was determined, that the dedication of 
the site should take place on the ensuing anniversary of American 
Independence, and constitute a part of the celebration of the day 
by the citizens of Utica. Invitations were accordingly issued by 
the special committee of the society, Generals Darling, McQuade, 
and Christian, of the accompanying form : 



1759 



1883 





The Oneida Historical Society requests the honor of 

your presence at the Dedicatory Services at the site of 

Old Fort Schvyler, Wednesday^ July 4-th, 1883, at 
2 P. M. 



* Ruins of Old Fort.— Jones' Annals, p. 490. 



164 OLD FORT SCIirYLEK. 

THE PAKADE. 

The nuinbt'r of stnuigcM-s who came to the city on this occasion 
was estimated at 20,000. Loi\o; before half-past eleven A. m. the 
crowd of men, women and children began to gather at Bagg's 
square and vicinity, and about that hour the various local and 
visiting organizations began taking the places in Bagg's square 
and Vvhitesboro, Genesee and Broad streets, which had been 
assigned to them. Eveiything worked like clockwork and there 
was not a drawback or hitch in the formation of the entire long 
line. John P. Vidvard at eleven forty-five a. m., tlie hour 
advertised for the procession to move, had his long line of 
decorated carriages systematically arranged in Whitesboro street 
and streets adjacent. With remarkable promptness for so long a 
procession, Grand Marshal Everts started the line in good order. 
As the procession started, cannons sent forth loud reports and the 
City Hall and church bells rang in unison. The line formed iu 
the following order : 

Platoon of Police. 
Giand Marshal D. T. Everts and Staff. 
Old Utiea Band. 
Utica Bering Guards — Captain Joseph H. Remraer. * 
Oneida Historical Society. 
Orator of the Day, Rev. L^aac S. Hartley, D. I), 
Officers of the General Committee in Carriages. 
Reader of the Declaration of Independence, 
Hon. Henry J. Coggeshall. • 
Little Falls Band. 
Chief Engineer Thomas A. Scott and Assistants. 
Little Falls Fire Department. 
Waterville Cornet Band. 
Waterville Fire Dej)artment headed by the Chief Engineer a»d 

Assistants. 

Employes of Wicks, Hughes & Griffiths of Utica. 

Frankfort Hose Company. 

Frankfort Band. 

Hutchinson Light Guards — Captain J. W. Gossin. 

Johnstown Band. 

Chief Engineer A. Philes and Assistants. 

Johnstown Fire Department. 

Post Reynolds, G. A. R.— O. P. Clark, Commander. 



THE PARADE. 165 

Delegates from Post Skillin of Rome, Post Ross of 

New York Mills and the Waterville Posts. 

Canastota Fire Department, with Chief Engineer 

Benjamin Rowe and Assistants. 

Adams Center Band. 

Gloversville Band. 

Utica Citizens' Corps, Lientenant P. J. McQuade. 

Watertown Citizens' Corps, Captain C. A. Settle. 

Remington Rifle Corps — Captain Brazee. 

Grand Army Dram Corps. 

Chief Engineer Dimbleby and Assistants. '' 

Utica Fire Department. 

Mayor Doolittle and the Common Council in Carriages. 

Utica Police and Fire Commissioners in Carriages. 

SECOND DIVISION. 

Colonel John P. Vidvard and Staff. 

Members of the Press in Can-iages. 

Canastota Band. 

Over Two Hundred Decorated "Wagons. 

The procession was nearly, if not quite two miles in length, 
and was an hour in passing any given point. The line of march 
was up Genesee street to Hopper, to Park avenue, to Oneida 
square, down Genesee to Court, to Vai'ick, to Fayette, to Genesee, 
to Broad, to Old Fort Schuyler monument. To give some 
adequate idea of the length of the pai'ade, it is only necessary to 
say that when the head of the pi'ocession had come down 
Genesee and Court streets and reached State; the rear of it had 
not yet crossed Genesee street bridge. That the parade was a 
triumphant success was manifest from the enthusiasm of the 
spectators. The line of march was a perfect ovation. Not only 
were yards filled, stoops, windows, balconies, tops of buildings 
and other available spots on the line occupied ; buf the sidewalks 
and even the streets were packed with human beings so that the 
police and members of the staff found it necessary oft times to 
clear a path for the procession to move. 

The line of march was a long one and the weather very hot and 
sultry, the hot sun shining directly on the boys in line much of 
the way. Still all stood it bravely, and marched over the entire 
advertised route without a grumble or murmur of dissent. 

The dedication of the site of old Fort Schuyler took jilace at 
the hour advertised — 2 p. m. Before that hour Vice-President 



166 OLD FORT SCHUYLER. 

Hutchinson, the members of the Oneida Historical Society and 
invited guests were at the site of the monument, and with Grand 
Marshal Everts and staff, reviewed the procession as it passed the 
site at the junction of Main street and Park avenue. It consists 
of a triangular plot of ground raised in the form of an embank- 
ment. At the upper corner is a tall flagstaff. At each of the 
corners is a large Parrot gun, presented by the State. In the 
center is a large square stone which marks the spot where the pro- 
posed monument is to be erected. 

The exercises opened with sentences of scripture, and prayer by ^ 
Rev. Charles H. Gardner, of Trinity Church. 

The new flag adopted by the State Legislature last year was 
then raised by the Hon. C. W. Hutchinson, vice-president of the 
Historical Society, by whom it was bought for the occasion, amid 
applause. He then made a brief address, as follows : 

Addbess by Vice-President Hutchinson. 

The Oneida Historical Society has during its organization 
corrected many of the errors of tradition which for years had 
been accepted as matters of historic fact. Their ofiicial publica- 
tions most carefully prepared and revised, have brought out many 
facts of both local and general interest pertaining to this portion 
of the State. Its record of the battle of Oriskany and its 
imposing centennial of August 6, 1817, is now the accepted 
historic record, and that testimonial to the patriotism and sturdy 
devotion of the German and Dutch pioneer settlers of this 
beautiful valley of the Mohawk, in their hand to hand conflict 
with the British and their tory and savage allies, has awakened 
new interest in the public mind, to the historic self-sacrifice of our 
ancestors, and rewritten the story of that pivotal contest of the 
American Revolution. 

That record of 1776 was one of warfare and bloodshed, and its 
glorious result after eight years of the severest trials, culminated 
in the success of the American arms; and you most appropriately 
now are celebrating the one hundred and seventh anniversary of 
the Declaration of Independence. You have also honored, upon 
this occasion, by your patriotic tribute to this day, an event, 
which, while military with name and character, is of great local 
importance. 

For upon the spot upon which we stand old Fort Schuyler was 
erected during the year 1759. It was peaceful in its history, and 
protective in its character. Its palisades were erected in order to 



ADDRESS OF VICE-PRESIDENT HUTCHINSON. 167 

afford refuge to tlie early settlers, and extended from the kill or 
creek easterly of us, westerl}^ to Second street ; from Broad street 
thence nortlierly to the MoluiwR river. 

Its guns commanded the old landing for hatteaux in their transit 
to and from Fort Stuiwix, Oneida lake and the great west, a short 
distance from which was the junction of the great eastern and 
western trails of the Kamosh-i-o-ni, the confederacy of Five 
Nations, the famed Iroquois. 

Tliis trail crossed the river at a shoal, still distinctly observable, 
a short distance from this spot, which was called by them 
Yah-nun-dah-sis, "or the Crossing by the Old Ford." And this is 
the earliest Iiistoric name which designated tlie present site of the 
city of Utica. 

This fort was erected during that period when the affairs of the 
American colonies were under the wise direction and counsels of 
Lord Chatham, and the English government held rule and juris- 
diction over this portion of the American continent. 

At that period the British ensign floated over this site denoting 
its nation's pov>^er, and commanding obedience to a trans-Atlantic 
government. 

On this bright day, after a lapse of one hundred and twenty- 
four years, we here stand together, freed from foreign domination, 
representatives of this great American republic. 

And that ensign we now replace by the new flag of the great 
State of New York, which, with its arms and noble motto, as 
adopted by the Legislature of 1882, floats from this flag stafl'. Its 
pure white ground and the bright emblems are most appropriately 
representative of the majesty and power of the five millions of 
people of the great empire State. 

This society has now (so far) fulfilled its duty, and now delivers 
to the city this base, with the confident expectation that the public 
will feel suflicient interest in this historic spot, to erect a suitable 
monument to perpetuate its name and record to our posterity. 

Hon. H. J. Coggeshall, of Waterville. then read the Declaration 
of Independence in loud, clear tones, and with good emphasis and 
inflections. 

liev. Dr. Isaac S. Hartley, of the Reformed Church, then 
delivered the Oration, which was "attentively listened to and often 
applauded. 



FORT SCHUYLER IN HISTORY. 



BY REV. DR. I8AAC S. HARTLEY. 



3Ir. President, Friends and Fellow- Citizens: % 

Beneath these genial skies and amid an atmosphere fairly laden 
with the music of freedom and joy, and on a day when as a people 
we took our place among the distinct nationalities of the world, 
we have here assembled to mark a spot pre-eminently historic to 
us, the citizens of this emerald city. 

There have been periods in our history when, laying aside our 
usual avocations, we have been called together to consider ques- 
tions bearing upon our national polity and life. And there have 
been seasons when, awakened by the din of wai* and the clash of 
arms, we have convened to arouse, enlist and equip brave hearts 
and strong arms for the conflict. But at this hour, though drums 
beat, bugles sound, flags wave and the measured tread of soldiers 
in martial array is heard in our midst, we have come to rescue 
from threatened oblivion the humble site, around which more than 
a century ago our fathers gathered, and from whence they sallied 
forth to glorious victory. 

America, rich in fertile valleys and noble streams, has none, 
however, more historic than those which these wooded hills garrison, 
and where flow yon rapid rippling waters. The great Roman 
orator tells us that, when he was at Athens, he could scarcely move 
without meeting some record commemorative of illustrious deeds 
or of illustrious men. The thundering eloquence of Demosthenes 
and the divine ethics of Plato were floating in the air. So here; 
every field, every forest, every acre and yon waters suggest mem- 
ories dear to every freeman's heart, and such as all true Americans 
should delight ever to recall. 

From the time in which it w%as known that this beautiful valley 
led to the great lakes and the extensive prairies of the west, it has 
been the avenue along which the most valiant forces have moved, 
as well as the scene for struggles Joitter, persistent and sanguinary. 
True, those of the whites who were the first to thread it from the 
east were our own Dutch forefathers, and like their fathers were 
in quest of the trade which made them the most successful raer- 



ADDRESS OF REV. DR. HARTLEY. ' 169 

chants in the workl ; wliilo those who passed in f rona the west were 
the missionaries of the cross, who, as they followed its grassy 
level, held high in air the symbol of their faith. But though the 
cross and commerce so early entered its verdant gates, only a few- 
years passed ere it witnessed scenes, than which the pages of his- 
tory nowhere record any moi'e terrible or severe. Here it was 
where the Five Nations made their home, whose Tehawhogea, or 
war captain, was always of the Mohawks. First, these confeder- 
ate tribes were in league for the preservation of their own cabins 
and hunting grounds. Later, when strengthened by the addition 
of the Tuscaroras, they formed an alliance with the Dutch. Still 
later, they became wedded to the English; later still, they were 
friends of the white man of every nationality. 

For more than a century the grand problem that was ever pre- 
senting itself to the more aggressive nations of Europe was, shall 
the vast area of the Iroquois become a dependence ; or shall the 
red man retain his native fields and remain the sole monarch of 
the western world? The attemi)ts to solve this far-reaching 
problem have made this valley most historic, and gave to its early 
people the name of " The Romans of America," while it led the 
Spartans of classic Greece to be called "The Mohawks of the Old 
World." 

It does not comport with the exercises of the hour that I should 
sketch, even rudely, the events of which the acreage about us is 
so suggestive, and which these hills once looked down upon in 
silent awe. Yet, who in this assembly that knows where he stands 
can fail to recall the associations so surely connected with the spot, 
aside from the fact that works were here erected for safety and 
defense. Over the very area whereon we are now gathered lay 
the only frequented road through this part of the valley. Some 
two centuries ago could we have looked down upon this very 
locality, as did the eagle from his secluded nest, we might have 
seen Father loques with his associate brethren in quest of the wig- 
wams of the Mohawks, to acquaint their dusky teuants with the 
story of the cross ; and a little later, missionaries from our own 
Dutch church at Albany desiring an acquaintance with the western 
tribes contemplating their me'iital and s])iritual improvement. In- 
deed, anterior to this, an Indian delegation went eastward asking 
from their Albanian friends to be taught anew the Christian 
truths, that by dying in the Christian faith, they might obtain the 
Christian reward. We might have seen likewise the brave chiefs 
of the Iroquois as they jourueyed — now for a national council — 



170 * OLD FOET SCHUYLEK. 

now to carry to their captors new tokens of their fidelity and 
allegiance. In truth, no warrior, no soldier, in war or in peace, no 
itinerant, no discoverer, nor army of any nationality could move 
to the right or left without passing the field about us, and thus 
the site we would this day perpetuate. It was the natural and 
traditional path. The original trail from the brambles and bushes 
of the Mohawk liere terminated, and also the trail which led from 
the higher grounds and the thicker forests at the west. 

Referring to the topographical features of our immediate neigh- 
borhood, in early days, two trails or paths lay on either side of the 
river; one leading to Fort William at the west, the other to a 
route by the wooded banks of the Black River and thence to 
Canada. Along this latter trail the French traveled in their over- 
land incursions aimed at the expulsion of the settlers on our 
northwestern frontiers. As it branched off some ten miles or so to 
the northwest towards Fort William, it made a more circuitous 
route to this part of our State than the trail on the south side of the 
river; of whicJi our own Genesee street, with its numerous stores and 
palatial houses is merely the development. A few rods to the east 
of us a little rivulet flowed, and it still flows bearing the present 
name of Ballon creek; or, as it was called by our Dutch fathers, 
Schwein FrsHser Kill, making its outlet in yonder curve in the broader 
current oF the Mohawk; while a hundred or more feet to the west, 
on the north bank of the river. Reels creek emptied its babbling 
waters. Insignificant tributaries to the Mohawk ! True, but in 
their day though secondary streams they had a historic import 
quite equivalent to the early Tiber, or to the more pellucid current of 
the Tagus. If the waters of the Adonis were esteemed sacred by 
the Asiatics, and the Phrygians rendered honors to the Marsyas and 
the Meander, and the conquering Greek, previous to his ruflling 
the surface of the Sinde, poured libations into it from golden gob- 
lets, every lover of freedom should hold most dear yon streams for 
the services they have rendered to American growth and to Amer- 
ican glory. The meeting of these two humble rivulets, coming 
down from the cooling springs born in yonder hills, laden with 
sand and gravel, and entering the river nearly opposite each other, 
made the Mohawk fordable ; and I need hardly say it was the 
fordableness of the river that constituted the place where we are 
now assembled the highway of this valley. On the angle of land 
formed by the south bank of the river, and the west shore of 
Schwein FreBser Kill the Fort was located, whose site we this day 
would mark. Consequently it guarded not merely the river itself, 



ADDRESS OF REV. DK. HARTLEY. l7l 

which wheu in repose reflects the eveniii;^ star and tlie blush of 
morn, but the tortuous travel east and west that led to it. Its site 
then was most wisely chosen. Its position made it one of the 
gates of this valley, nor could a friend or enemy pass seeking the 
east by the Mohawk, or the west by the double trail without pay- 
ing to it, if demanded, proper tribute. 

Remembering, then, wliere we now stand, how numerous must 
have been the scenes to which this site has been witness! But 
when I speak of tlie scenes with which this place is so surely con- 
nected, I have not in mind so much those iu which loving peace is 
so often eloquent, and upon whic'i orators and poets always delight 
to lavish, and appropriately, their loftiest praises, Avheu 

Buried was the bloody hatcliet — 
Buried was the di-eadful war club — 
Buried were all war-like weapons, 
And the war cry was forgotten — 

rather am I thinking of wliat Avon's bard so truthfully described 
as 

•• That sou of hell 
Whom angry heavens do make their minister," 

of war, savagery, slaughter, rapine, and all that kindred' terms so 
naturally suggest. It is said that a single mound remains, with 
here and there a ditch, to mark the ancient site of the old city of 
Verulam. But connect these debris of her former greatness with 
her history, and the mind instantly becomes moved, and deeply. 
Once she enjoyed all the rights of Roman citizenship. Here the 
brave Queen Boadicea defended tlie Roman army. Here St. Alban 
received liis martyrdom. Here, also Britain knew British, Roman, 
Saxon, Danish, Saxon and Norman dynasties. So when I pause to 
recall where we are now met, scene after scene passes before me just 
as great and changing. Indeed, in imagination, I can see the 
moving to and fro of Indian scout, fir:L'd with revenge, learning 
when and where his intiamed passions shall next be given their 
sway. I can see the fleeing of bleeding, decimate:! and homeless 
families hurrying hither and thither, crimsoning their way Avith 
blood, seeking that protection which civilization and only civiliza- 
tion can give and perpetuate. I can see cruel hordes advancing 
from yonder marshes to scalp, to wound, to kill; and the marching 
of Saxoti forces to checik, to conquer and to tame. Nor is it diffi- 
cult to recall the alternate moving and retreating of Indians, 
French, Dutch, English, flushed with the hope of speedy victory. 



172 OLD rOKT SCHUYLEE. 

or disheartened and crushed by sudden defeat. For the Caucasian 
knew this spot, as did the lowly and cruel red man. No doubt it 
has been the passive observer of many a skirmish, and, it may be, 
bitter struggle. And as at yonder ford the weaker rested to 
bathe, so the stronger availed themselves of the pebbled path and 
hurrying over, sought victory beyond. 

Omitting the earlier scenes with which this part of our lovely 
valley is fairly burdened, let me ark; was it not through the 
very fields whereon we stand that the sachems so often passed for 
their peculiai" talks to the ancient place of treaties — Albany; that 
the adventurous Bradstreet crossed with his armament for Oswego ; 
and when its Fort was completed that the motely brigades of Mer- 
cer, Schuyler and others marched to occupy and defend it; and 
that the relief corps of Webb so sluggishly journeyed ? Indeed 
scarce had the rude posts of the stockade settled in their holes ere 
Prideaux and Johnson reached yon ford with the confederate 
troops of New England and New Jersey on their way to Niagara; 
breaking camp at Canajoharie on the 19th, and journeying by this 
site on the 30th of June. The same was true of other commanders, 
and other forces bent on kindred missions. As the tides rise and 
fall, or flood and ebb, so have valorous hosts moved to and fro 
before this place — now to defeat — now to victory — now to vic- 
tory — now to defeat. In yonder meadow the gallant Herkimer 
bivouacked after his glorious victory at Oriskany — that royal 
struggle which turned the current of the Revolution and ended in 
our national birth. Beyond a doubt the first water that cooled 
and cleansed his mortal wound was dipped up from yonder daisied 
bank. The wily St. Leger also would have rested here had not 
the brave German assured him, by bullet messages, that the 
longest way round was the shortest way home. Here Arnold 
halted in seeking the relief of Fort Stanwix. 

Numerous, very numerous, are the associations of this place; nor 
is there an area in all central New York abounding in memories of. 
men more noble, in events more decisive, or in scenes more 
thrilling and important. 

Referring, as I now a-.n, to some of the events that have made 
this section of our valley so historic, may I add ; few have ever 
estimated the strategic importance of central New York, and the 
bearing its topography has exerted upon our national destiny. In 
the line of hills a little to the south of us, no less than three 
streams have their rise, which with our own gently flowing 
Mohawk and the Hudson command nearly one-half the eastern area 



ADDKESS OF REV. DK. HARTLEY. 173 

of these United States ; and by following the course of our streams 
and valleys we can invade no less than twenty States and two- 
thirds of the territories of the union. Streams form a nation's 
natural defense and are her proper highways ; so have believed the 
mighty conquerors of the past, and much later the confederates 
in our recent war. In no mean sense then, New York State com- 
mands the union. Nor can there be but one govenunent on tliis 
continent so long as our rivers, valleys and mountains remain as 
noAV. The honored President of this society, Horatio Seymour, 
the sage of Deerfield 

Qui decor i decus addit avito, 

assures us that, in company with General Winfield Scott, from an 
elevated point near the confluence of the Mohawk and the Hudson 
rivers, he overlooked the range of highlands which marked their 
courses ; and that the hero of so many battles, stretching out his 
arm, remarked: "Remember this has been the strategic point in 
all the wars waged for the control of this continent." And this 
is simply one of the highlands of our State. Add to it those of 
which I have just spoken, those wooded summits which the sun 
first doth gild, and from them we can pass down not merely to our 
seaboard cities, but to the vast, vast acres which make our 
reunited and prosperous country. 

The Fort that formerly occupied this site was built in 1759; 
more than forty years after the erection of Forts Ticondei'oga and 
Onondaga, and some forty-seven years after Fort Hunter, the lat- 
ter being the first Fort erected among the Five Nations. It was 
merely one in a long chain of similar structures that united the 
waters of the Hudson with the deeper and bluer waters of our 
western lakes. On the west, the nearer were Forts Bull and 
William, with Forts Herkimer and Hendricks at the east. It had 
its origin in the colonies desiring to strengthen themselves in this 
valley, and the necessity of supplies and ammunition being con- 
veniently located, as well as shelter for the settlers when threatened 
or pursued by thirsty and bloody foes. 

Under date of July 16, 1755, the lords of trade wrote to Gov- 
ernor Hardy for an opinion as to the best system to be laid down 
for the defense of the frontiers; for the management of the 
Indians; what Forts should be built, where located, and the num- 
ber of troops required to give efficiency to the colonies. Hardy, 
in replying to this communication, suggested that three Forts 
should be erected on the northern frontiers; one on the Hudson 



174 OLD FORT SCHUYLEE. 

river; another at Lake George; a tliird at or about where Wood 
creek and South Bay mix their waters ; another in the Onondaga 
country where tlie general councils of the Six Nations were held; 
and still anotlier some eighty miles to the west of Oswego. They 
were not, however, to be equal in extent, nor of the same magni- 
tude. On the contrary, he expressly mentions that some, as Fort 
Onondaga, need not be very strong, as a picketed one with a num- 
ber of block-houses would be sufficient. The recommendations of 
the governor were adopted. So soon, therefore, as authority 
arrived for their erection they were begun. As General Shirley 
at this time was in command of the north and western frontier, he 
undertook the construction of the more needed ones, leaving the 
less important to be built after the completion of those demanded 
for strategic purposes. To his honor and magnanimity be it said, 
not one was located arbitrarily. On the other hand, he not only 
sought the permission of the Indians, but solicited also their active 
co-operation. Notably was this true of the Fort built at Oneida. 
Ere, however, the plans of the government could be carried out, 
Shirley was superseded by the Earl of Loudon ; it was, therefore, 
under his administration that this particular Fort was built, and 
from whom also it received, so to say, its charge. Before the 
Indians yielded their assent to the multiplication of defenses 
among them, inasmuch as the^y were desired for the present emerg- 
ency, and their erection somewhat interfered with their fishing and 
hunting places, and they who garrisoned them too frequently 
abused their privilege, it was expressly stipulated that all minor 
posts should be destroyed, so soon as the war ended. 

The size and shape of Fort Schuyler I have yet to learn, as well 
as the special character of its construction. As Fort Stanwix at 
Kome was erected the year previous, and at an expense of nearly 
three hundred thousand dollars, and upon the most true and 
approved scientific principles of military engineering, it is not 
probable that the Fort on whose site we are now met was either 
as costly or extensive. Rather, since the completion of Fort 
Stanwix gave abundant accommodations for a large garrison, and 
afforded complete shelter for supplies and fugitives, it is more than 
probable that it was a simple block-house, with openings for can- 
non and musket, and palisaded so as to furnish proper protection 
to all needing it for safety or aggressive warfare. I thus speak, 
for such was the character of the Forts to the east which occupied 
similar subordinate positions. In Barber's collection of New York, 
we are told that the "first building erected within the limits of 



ADDRES.^ OF KEV. DR. HARTLEY. 175 

Utica was a mud fort, during tlie old French war. It was situated 
between Main street and the bank of the river a little eastward of 
Second street." When Fort Schilyler had accomplished its mis- 
sion, or the Vi^ar over, the authorities kept the promise made to the 
allies, and with other constructions of like cliaracter, it was given 
over ^o decay. 

Following the custom of the day tlie Fort was named for an 
officer, at this very period in the active service of his country, 
Colonel Peter Schuyler, of New Jersey. . Already had the noble 
deeds of Peter Schuyler, of Albany, become household words; but 
as the dash, bravery, heroism and philanthropy of his namesake 
were daily coming more and more into view, and were command- 
ing the astonishment and admiration of his countrymen, it received 
bis name, simply as a feeble acknowledgment of the services he 
had already rendered the government, as well as a reminder for 
further faithfulness, devotion and sacrifice. 

That the Fort was called for the Jersey and not for the Albanian 
Schuyler, we need but recall the custom that pi-evailed at this day 
in naming every stockade or defense for an officer then in active 
service. Unhappily when its foundations were laid Peter Schuyler, 
of Albany, had been in his grave twenty-five years, while his name- 
sake of New Jersey was in command of the Jersey Blues then 
garrisoning Oswego. Nor among all the officers in the army was 
there one more popular, self-sacrificing, or the recipient of higher 
honors. When others were timid and doubtful, he was bold ; when 
they parleyed and delayed, he was nervous and anxious for action; 
when the State was unable to pay its troops, he advanced moneys 
for the same from his private resources; and more especially, when 
the general government could not and did not ransom her soldiers 
from captivity, Peter Schuyler, of New Jersey, became their 
deliverer by personally ))urchasing their redemption, and with no 
hope of return. Indeed his bravery, patriotism and philanthropy 
endeared him to the whole country. It is likewise the testimony 
and tradition of his descendants still living in New Jersey, that it 
was their ancestor for whom this Fort was called ; and at this very 
hour their choicest heirloom consists of the sword once worn by 
their noble sire during his campaigns in our valley, when the old 
blockhouse first came into being. While Peter Schuyler, of 
Albany, had frequently given his services to his countrj^ and 
enjoyed a most enviable reputation among the Indians, he was, 
however, more a man of peace; in fact, he was offered the 
honor of knighthood for his civic services. Peter Schuyler, of 



176 OLD FORT SCHUYLEK. 

New Jersey, was a man of war, and for his military dash and 
sagacity received the commendation of the English parliament, 
through William Pitt; while the colonies manifested their gratitude 
for his great philanthropy by frequently rendering him unwonted 
honors. 

As in studying the early history of this section of our State, we 
frequently meet with the names Fort Schuyler and Old Fort 
Schuyler, may I observe in passing, that during the Revolutionary 
war an attempt was made to give the name of Schuyler to the 
Fort erected on or near the site of Fort Stanwix, at Rome; while 
the Fort which we this day would commemorate was alluded to 
as Old Fort Schuyler. But as these two Forts derived their names 
from two different indivduals of the same distinguished family, so 
did they occupy different cites. To repeat, our Fort Schuyler 
derived its name from Colonel Peter Schuyler, of Xew Jersey, and 
of Indian renown ; while the Fort which supplanted Fort Stanwix 
was called after General Philip Schuyler, of New York, and of 
Revolutionary memory. 

Here an imperfect sketch of the Schuyler family will not be out 
of place. 

The family of Schuyler has always played a most important 
part in the history of our commonwealth. The first who appears 
on the historical page was Philip Pietersen Schuyler, a pure 
Hollander, who came to these western shores in 1650. His an- 
cestral acres lay about the famous old city of Dordrecht. After 
an honored career, he died on the 9th of May, 1683, O. S. and was 
buried in the old Dutch church at Albany. His fourth child bore 
his father's name, nor was he any the less distinguished. He was 
born at the city of Albany, and after its incorporation became its 
first mayor, occupying this position from 1686 to 1694. In 1688 he 
received the commission of major of the militia, and before the close 
of the year was given command of the Fort in his native city. He 
was also made a member and, at a later period, became the president 
of his majesty's council for the province of New York ; and for a 
while acting governor of the colony. He was chief commissioner 
for Indian affairs, and held that arduous and responsible posi- 
tion many years. To impress the government of Queen Anne 
with the character of its allies, in 1710 he visited England, taking 
with him several Iroquois chiefs with whose constituency he was 
on terms of intimacy. As a token of her respect for the services 
he had rendered the government, Queen Anne presented him on his 
return with a silver vase. This was the Scluiyler whom the 
Indians loved to call "Brother Queder." He died in 1724. 



ADDRESS OF REV. DR. HARTLEY. 177 

The ninth cliikl of Philip Pietersen Schuyler was John, whose 
son John was the honored father of General Philip Schuyler, the 
trusted and tried friend of America, and who fought so bravely 
for her independence. He was baptized, as was his friend 
Benjamin Franklin, on the day of his birth. 

The sixth child of Philip Pietersen was Arent Schuyler, wlio was 
born in the city of Albany in 1662. He was given the name of 
his maternnl grandfather. He married Jenneke Teller, November 
26tl), 1684, and commenced house-keeping on North Pearl street, 
Albany, as the records read, "in the house where the eagle hangs 
out." The notarial papers inform us that as his name Arent 
meant eagle, he hung out in a cage a live eagle, to mark his 
residence, instead of a door plate. About the year 1693, he 
removed to New York city. In an Indian deed dated July 13th, 
1696, he is styled, "Merchant of the city of New York." 
Having purchased, however, an extensive tract of land in New 
Jersey, near Pompton, he removed there perhaps in 1706, and ever 
afterwards regarded this State as his home. In April, 1710, he 
purchased an additional farm on New Barbadoes Neck, the present 
site of Belleville, to which he removed the same year. 

As an illustration of the surprises that await the more bold and 
adventurous, let me relate an incident which, as we shall see, gave 
him no mean wealth, as well as social influence, in his adopted 
State. As one of his negroes was plowing, he happened to tiarn 
up a greenish heavy stone, which he took to his master, who, dis- 
covering that it contained copper, sent it to England for analysis. 
It was found to possess eighty per cent of this valued metal. 
Desiring to reward the fiuthful and thoughtful slave, Schuyler 
asked him to name three things that he desired most, assuring him 
that his wishes would be gravely considered. The slave answered 
first, that he might remain with his master as long as he lived ; 
second, that he might have all the tobacco he could smoke; and 
third, that he might have a dressing-gown like his master's, with 
big brass buttons. Schuyler suggested he should ask for some- 
thiiig more. After a moment\s thought, the negro replied ''that 
lie might have a little more tobacco." How true that were the 
loftiest ambition of some fully gratified, it would end in smoke ! 

The family of Arent Schuyler consisted of his sons Philip, 
Casperus, John. Peter, Adoniah, and his daughters Eve and 
Cornelia. His third son William died in infancy. Peter, his fifth 
son, the noble man whom we this day would honor, was born on 
his father's farm in 1710; whether the one at Pompton or Belle- 



178 OLD FORT SCHUYLER. 

ville it is difficult to siiy. Of his early days little is known beyond 
his receivin<^ a liberal edncation, and such as qualified him for 
future usefulness. 

His father dying in 1730, and leaving him by his will some 
seven hundred and sixty acres of land near the Rahway river, on 
the site of the present city of Elizabeth, led him to make New 
Jersey his home. He married Mary, daughter of John Walter, 
of New York, a man of considerable influence and great wealthy 
who lived at this period in Hanover square in the same city. It 
apoears he had but one child, a daughter named Catharine; to 
whom, as his will reads, he bequeaths all the residue of his estate, 
and her heirs and assigns for ever. 

But rather than occupy ourselves with the biography of Colonel 
Schuyler, since he was quite a prominent figure in the struggle in 
which the colonists were now engaged, let me, though necessarily 
very imperfectly, review the condition of the country at this time, 
and as we unfold it, mark the man. 

From the hour in which the French had obtained a foot hold on 
American soil, and had become acquainted with its general 
character, they coveted to make it a dependency of the French 
crown. For the accomplishment of this purpose, every known 
expedient was resorted to from actual purciiase, to forcible 
expulsion. To add efficiency to their design, a chain of Forts was 
begun to extend from Canada to the mouth of the Mississippi; 
while later they were planted westward as far as the present city 
of Detroit; thus literally to hem in the colonists, and when the 
proper hour arrived to take possession of the country. The 
formal declaration of war, by the powers in Europe in 1 744, added 
to the growing hatred of the contending parties; and laid open 
our frontier State wider to all the hoirors with wdiich they had 
become already too familiar. Indeed, the atrocities of the French 
rapidly assumed such proportions, that the province became most 
clearly impressed witli the conviction that their only permanent 
safety lay in the conquest of Canada, and in making it a tribute 
to the English realm. With this in view, Governor Shirley, of 
Massachusetts, proposed at once the capturing of Louisburg, and 
particularly it, since all conceded this settlement to be the key to 
the French occupation. At the same time aid was dispatched to 
Oswego, the many frontier Forts were strengthened, and measures 
entered upon to engage the Iroquois in the war now upon the 
nation. While the colonists were thus paying their attention to 
the invaders at Cape Breton, all the country, especially that 



ADDRESS OF REV. DR. HARTLEY. 179 

portion along our northern frontier, was kept in perpetual disturb- 
ance, by the actions of the Frencli and their tawny allies. 

But to attempt any histoiy of the atrocities of the French at 
this time, along the frontiers of our State, would be merely a 
recapitulation of the massacre at Schenectady in 1690, and the 
still later barbarities of Wyoming and Cherry Valleys. As they 
were of an uncalled for character they awoke a S2)irit of deteirnined 
resistance among the colonies, and spurred them to vigilance and 
action. Among other results they drew Colonel Peter Schuyler 
from his Jersey acres, and led him to offer his services to the 
country. This was in 1 740. The records of the acts of the New 
Jersey legislature for this year contain the following: "For colonel 
of the forces raised in this province for the intended expedition,, 
it is unanimously recommended his honor, Peter Schyuler, Esq., 
a gentleman well-known to several members of this board, of good 
estate and reputation, and very proper to be commissionated for 
the purpose." Having accepted this high and responsible 
position, our hero was immediately ordered to proceed to Oswego, 
to garrison the Fort, and make ready for any service to which he 
might be summoned. Surrounding himself with the troops he 
had been able to enlist, on the third of September he embarked at 
Amboy, en route for Oswego, via the Hudson river and Albany. 
As the government, however, had failed to furnish the necessary 
additional force, that was to come from England, Schuyler, after 
a delay of five months in Albany, w'as recalled. Though deeply 
chagrined at the failure of the home government to redeem its 
promise, and the inefficiency also of those who had the care of 
colonial affairs, this experience, however, simply brought out 
some of his more prominent characteristics, and led tlie 
authorities to see with w^hom they were dealing. During his 
detention at Albany, he informed the New Jersey governor that 
his men were in want of a surgeon, medicine, shirts, flints, colors, 
bread and peas. Besides this, unless they soon received their pay, 
they had threatened to leave; taking with them their arms and 
ammunition. In Governor Hamilton's reply to their commimica- 
tion, he complimented Colonel Schuyler for the zeal he had shovra 
in his majesty's service; and at the same time gave him assurance 
that that very day he had ordered for each one of his soldiers a 
pair of shoes and two speckled shirts. But as the troops felt that 
this promise of the authorities would be similar to others with 
which they had become acquainted, Colonel Schuyler, fearing they 
might desert, advanced from his own private moans several 



180 OLD FOET SCHUYLEU. 

thousand pounds, enougli to meet their wants, and to silence all 
their murmurs. The more important needs of his men having 
thus been met, Colonel Schuyler was ordered to proceed to 
Saratoga and await the commands that there would be sent him. 
Unfortunately, the same expei'iences that had overtaken him 
while at Albany were here repeated ; and they were met in the 
same way. In the mean time, articles of peace were signed at 
Aix la Chapelle, which bringing an end to the war, left Colonel 
Schuyler nothing to do but to return to New Jersey ; where, after 
a few weeks' delay he found himself engaged once more in his 
former labors.l 

Though the war had been officially declared to be at an end, so 
far, however, as America was concerned, after all nothing really 
had been gained. On the contrary, the country had greatly 
suffered, and so had humanity. The boundaries between British 
and French possessions were yet unsettled ; nor had either con- 
testant acknowledged the right of the other to portions of Maine ; 
but more particularly to the basin of the Ohio. With such 
important questions unadjusted, the opportunities for renewing 
old hostilities were exceedingly frequent ; so much so that even 
an unprejudiced mind easily discovered them. The following 
added very much to the accumulating complications. The 
English government, (under the treaty of Lancaster of 1744) had 
permitted Virginia to assume the right of territory as far west 
as the Mississippi. In harmony with this treaty, a large grant of 
land situated on the Ohio river was given to sevei*al individuals 
of wealth and influence, residing in England and in Virginia. 
The grantees on taking possession of their property naturally 
adopted ^neasures for their government and protection^ The 
government in Canada having learnfed of these proceedings, and 
regarding them as an intrusion upon French rights, informed the 
governors of New York and Pennsylvania of the encroachments 
thus made ; and warned them that in case they did not desist, 
such stops would be taken as the invasion of a domain demanded. 
His threats receiving no attention, in pursuance of his purpose, 
the French governor ordered his troops to the town of Picqua, in 
the valley of the Miami, to demand its surrender with the English 
traders therein and their eifeets. The Indians in charge, declaring 
that the English were their guests, refused; whereupon the 
French assaulted the town and destroyed the Fort ; and to show, 
it may be, the determination with which they proposed to carry 
out their measures, the king of the Piankeshaws was sacrificed 



ADDRESS OF REV. DR. HARTLEY. 181 

and eaten. Thus, in Ohio began anew that flame Avliose buried 
fires were once more to illuminate not simply the western frontiers, 
but the homes and the hearths of all the colonies. 

Dinwiddle, the lieutenant governor of Virginia, regarding con- 
duct so unprovoked as tantamount to an invasion, in 1753, 
dispatched Major George Washington with a letter to the com- 
mander of the French forces in the Ohio, demanding that he with- 
draw from the territory of his majesty, and make due explanation 
for an act so dastardly and cruel. De St. Pierre then the commander 
of the Ohio, who received this letter, replied that he had acted 
from instructions given him by the governor general of Canada ; 
still he would forward to him the communication. While the 
correspondence was progressing, the French increased the 
difticulties by fitting out an expedition under Duquesne to occupy 
the Ohio valley; learning which the Indians determined to resist. 
Two fleet runners passed down this very valley to the home of 
Sir William Johnson with belts, soliciting his assistance. At the 
same time an Indian envoy met the French at Niagara, and 
warned them back. iSTothing daunted, however, they pushed on, 
till they came to the harbor of Erie, where they were again 
entreated to return. As the speech of Tamacharisson, the half 
king, brought a reply from the French commander that proved a 
hurricane to the flames already smoldering, permit me to repro- 
duce the two in their entirety. " Father," said the Indian, " you 
are disturbers in this land, by taking it away unknown to us and 
by force. This is our land, and not yours. Father, both you and 
the English are white; we live in a country between. Therefore 
the land belongs to neither the one nor the other of you; but the 
Great Being above allowed it to be a dwelling place for us ; so, 
father, I desire you to withdraw, as I have done our brothers, 
the English." 

"Child," replied the French oflicer, "you talk foolishly; you 
say the land belongs to you ; but not so much of it as the black 
of your nails is yours. It is my land; and I will have it, let who 
will stand up against it." What arrogance ! What assumption ! 
W^ho can wonder that such words should quicken, inflame and 
curdle even Indian blood. 

The mission of Washington proving as fruitless as the entreaties 

of the Indians, on his return to Virginia preparations were 

immediately made to assert the right of the colonists. As soon as 

possible a regiment was raised, and under the command of 

, Washington moved for the Ohio ; but meeting with defeat 



182 OLD FORT SCHUYLER. 

nothing was accomplished. Already had the French advanced as 
far eastward as the present site of Pittsburg; and aided by a 
stron«:»- force under De Contreccenr possessed themselves of the 
Fort the Virginians had here erected. It was at this time that the 
colonists were exhorted to confederacy. Accordingly, on the 
19th of June, 1154, a conference of commissioners from every 
State north of the Potomac met in Albany, to consider a plan 
which their own needs and the exigency of the hour demanded. 
It was the opinion ol every member of the council, that a union of 
all the colonies was absolutely required. From this hour the 
French discovered the English were in earnest ; nor were they 
deceived. The States having become confederated felt their 
duties and resjjonsibilities. Concerted measures were therefore 
prepared, not merely to check the advance of the French, but to 
drive them out of the country. Massachusetts, ]N"ew York, New 
Jersey, Pennsylvania and Virginia immediately voted supplies for 
the campaign, and many of their valiant sons were soon on the 
march. The resolves of the colonists quite paralyzed the 
home government. While, however, it was hesitating, the Duke 
of Cambridge,. early in 1775, sent over General Braddock with a 
detachment of the army in Ireland, to be used by the colonies as 
were their needs. One of the first measures adopted by Braddock 
after his arrival was calling together the several governors, for 
the double purpose of learning the true condition of affairs, and to 
-agree on some plan for united action. This council convened at 
Alexandria, in Virginia, April 14, 1755, at which the following 
four expeditions were agreed upon : The first was to be directed 
against Fort Duquesne, to be commanded by Braddock in jDcrson; 
the second, to capture Forts Frontenac and Niagara, under 
General Shirley; the third, to seize Crown Point, under the 
leadership of General William Johnson ; while the last, under 
Lawrence, the lieutenant governor of Nova Scotia, was to reduce 
this province, according to the English interpretation of its 
boundaries. 

It was now that the martial and patriotic spirit of Colonel Peter 
Schuyler became again aroused, and that he puts his sword and 
life at the control of his country. Since his former campaigns had 
made him quite familiar with frontier life, he was at once 
ordered to occupy with his regiment Fort Oswego, which 
he did, reaching it July 20, 1755. As Braddock, however, 
had just experienced an inglorious defeat, which exposed 
the State of New Jersey to the inroads of the French hirelings. 



ADDRESS OF REV. DR. HARTLEY. 183 

iu December of tlie same year, lie was instructed to abandon 
Oswego, return liome and prepare for sucli contingencies, to which 
it was thought the recent reverses must lead. During the winter, 
he occupied a block-house on the banks of the ])elaware. In the 
spring, on his return to the north, lie was ordered back to Oswego, 
which, after many delays, he reached July 1, 1756. On his 
arrival, learning that Montcalm had determined on the invasion of 
the province, and that he proposed to begin by the reduction of 
the Fort at Oswego, Colonel Schuyler prepared himself for the 
threatened conflict. Meanwhile, the j^rovincials, learning through 
Indian spies of the proposed attack, instructed General Webb to 
march with the force at his command to Schuyler's relief. He 
failed to arrive in time. The Fort was attacked with great 
earnestness and vigor. When the struggle began. Colonel Schuyler 
was posted with his men some six hundred yards to the Avestward 
of the Fort, in a small, unfinished redoubt, used for keeping 
cattle; and in the afternoon of the same day was busy in cutting 
down the bushes near the Fort and making fascines. The next 
morning, Colonel Mercer, the commander of the garrison, was 
killed. On learning his death, Lieutenant Colonel Littlehales sent 
for Colonel Schuyler, and, after a council of war, orders were 
issued to cease firing and prepare for capitulation. Colonel 
Schuyler opposed the surrender; but being overruled was obliged 
to yield. It would be difficult to find in all history a more 
ignominous submission, though it stipulated that the entire 
garrison should march out with the full honors of war. On 
razing the Fort, Montcalm immediately returned to Canada, 
carrying among other prisoners, the brave, uncompromising 
Colonel Schuyler, the hero of this happy hour. 

Though in captivity and in the hands of his enemies, if caring 
for one's command and mitigating the hard trials of his fellow- 
countrymen, situated as was he, in providing for their wants, and 
in aiding the poor Indians who, through this and other disasters to 
provincial arms, had fallen into French hands, be any indication 
of loyalty — or true manhood, even in Canada, Colonel Schuyler 
was none the less active in the interests of his counti'y than Avhen 
in the field. His military abilities, social position and magna- 
nimity of spirit were soon discovered by the French, and duly 
acknowledged. Liberties were accorded to him that others had 
never enjoyed, which he embraced ; nor did he ever abuse them. 
As he loved his country and its flag, so did he love her sons and 
her wards. 



184 OLD FORT SCHUYLER. 

Away from the noise of war and in retirement, he spent his 
time not in planning new campaigns, nor in devising means for 
escape; but in visiting, comforting and caring for the unhappy- 
prison soldiers about him, English, American and Indian, who,, 
through the chances of war, had become captives. Fathers and sons, 
who could illy be spared from their homes, he gladly and promptly 
ransomed from his private purse; while for the sick he procured 
unusual attention, knowing no nationality in his ministries of 
sympathy and love. In fact, during his stay in Canada, he was 
allowed by the authorities to have a house by himself, whose doors 
were 9ver wide open for his countrymen, all of whom were free to 
visit him ; nor were any who sought his kindly counsel or benefac- 
tions sent empty away. At this period in his history, he advanced 
more than twenty thousand livres to secure the release of Indians, 
personally caring for them until they were able to be returned to 
their homes. Many provincials received advances in money, far 
beyond their ability to pay; and when reproved for his liberality, 
he informed his censors that his silver could not be better be- 
stowed. Noble man ! O generous heart ! When will others, with 
far greater means, be moved with similar feelings for our common 
humanity, and learn this plain lesson, that moneys expended in the 
interests of those who put their lives at the service of their coun- 
try, is spent most humanely, most wisely. Let those in our city, 
whom fortune has favored, give as freely of their accumulations 
or inheritance as did Colonel Peter Schuyler, for the heroes who 
have gone forth from the homes about us, and this very hour, not 
only would many a domestic want be met, but in some one of our 
streets we should see a monument commemorative of their sacrifice 
and heroism, as stately, grand and beautiful as any which the sun 
this day gilds, or which this night the stars silently watch and so 
gladly look down upon. 

In the autumn of 1756, Colonel Schuyler was allowed on parole 
to leave Montreal and visit the city of New York, bearing a 
commission from the governor general of Canada to make terms 
for the exchange of prisoners. He arrived in New York in 
November; and as his reputation for sympathy, kindness and great 
philanthropy— all that he had done for the redemption of his 
captive countrymen had preceded him, he was received with un- 
usual demonstrations of joy. The same evening the city was 
illuminated, bonfires were kindled on the common, and an elegant 
entertainment awaited him at the King's Arm Tavern, where the 
public generally testified their great gratification at his return. 



ADDRESS OF REV, DR. HARTLEY. 185 

The next day lie set out for home. ITis neighbors and friends 
welcomed liis arrival witli eliecrs and the booming of cannon. On 
visiting Newark the following day, the roar of cannon again 
awaited him; the dwellings, also, of the people Avere illuminated, 
an honor which they felt pre-eminently due him for his humanity, 
as well as for his self sacrifice and devotion to his country's 
interests. On going to Princeton, similar marks of respect and 
consideration were bestowed. As he entered that now classic town, 
the citizens went out to meet and escort him to his stopping place; 
and as he approached, a young lady advancing, thus addressed 
him : 

Dear to eacli muse, and to my country dear, 

Welcome once more to breathe thy native air ; 

Not half so cheering is the solar ray 

To the harsh region of a winter's day ; 

Not half so grateful fanning breezes rise 

When the hot dog-star burns the summer skies ; 

Caesar's shore with acclamation rings, 

And, welc(mie ScJuryler, every shepherd sings; 

See for thy brows the laurel is prepared. 

And justly deemed a patriot, tby reward ; 

E'en future ages shall enroll thy name 

In sacred annals of immortal fame. 

Thus was it whenever he journeyed. The entire State was 
moved by his presence, and the distinguished in evei'y walk of life 
strove to do him honor. As many of her private sons could not 
forget the favors which they had received, no more could the State 
withhold paying him, on all proper occasions, the honor which his 
services had so often and nobly won. 

But the days of his parole soon passed away. In obedience to 
his promise, should no excliange be made in his absence, he pre- 
pared to return to the city of his captivity. William Pitt, and 
even the king himself, complimented him for the zeal he had 
manifested in the service. Still, on the expiration of his parole, 
neither was able to redeem him. Even his jailer, the Marquis de 
Vaudreuil, referred to him as " the brave old Peter Schuyler." Leav- 
ing, therefore, his home he set out for Montreal, July 1, 1758, 
arriving there late the same month. Before his departure from 
New York, General Abercrombie invested him with full powers 
for such an exchange of prisoners as the interests of the country 
demanded. To what extent he was able to carry out the com- 
mands of his senior officer is not known ; but it is known that 
shortly after his arrival at Montreal he was exchanged for M. Da 



186 OLD FOKT SCHUYLEE. 

Noyaii, the commandant at Fort Frontenac. Onc3 more then at 
liberty, he returned home, having been absent nearly six months. 
But he did not journey thitherward alone; on the contrary, he 
gathered up such English prisoners as he had been able to exchange, 
and many also whom he had purchased from their captors with 
his private funds, paying for the same a very high price. Indeed, 
it is said on his arriving at Fort Edward, he had in his company 
no less than eighty-eight men, women and children ; among whom 
was Mrs. Howe of New England, afterwards the heroine of a 
romance styled, "The Fair Captive," Mr. George W. Schuyler of 
Ithaca, N. Y., in furnishing me with this interesting incident adds: 
"while a prisoner Mrs. Howe was sought but not won, by two 
Canadians, father and son. Her situation was embarrassing, but 
Colonel Schuyler came to her relief. He secured her from her 
suitors by buying her of her owner." Unhappily during Colonel 
Schuyler's captivity the war lost none of its virulence, nor bad the 
nations come to any better understanding of their rights, than if 
a sword had not been drawn. True, several attempts had been 
made at invasion, and numerous plans had been proposed for at- 
tacking the French and dispossessing them of their lands ; but 
owing to serious disagreements among British and American or 
provincial officers concerning rank, :ii<l the breaking out of small-pox 
in the army, nothing permanent had been accomplished. The recent 
advent, however, of William Pitt to the premiership of England 
gave the colonists new hope, and inspired them with new purposes. 
On his accession, three expeditions were immediately proposed, 
one against Louisbarg, the second against Crown Point and Ticon- 
deroga, while the third was directed against Fort Duquesne; 
resulting in the reduction of Louisburg, the occupation of Fort 
Duquesne, but defeat at Crown Point and Ticonderoga, Though 
the events of the year did not equal the expectations which had 
been entertained, from the joy and cntliusiasm the change in the 
English ministry had jmt into the heart of the colonists, the 
advantages gained were marked and decisive. The acquisition of 
the island of Cape Breton opened the way to Quebec and. up the 
St. Lawrence ; and the success in the west enabled a stronger force 
to be brought against Canada. It was, therefore, determined to 
attempt by an overwhelming force once more the subjugation of 
Canada; and thus close a war which had been so detrimental to 
the interests of both nations. Now it is that the brave Colonel 
Schuyler is called again to the front with his Jersey Blues, and 
with the combined forces of the provinces advances northward. 



ADDRESS OF REV. DR. HARTLEY. 187 

In this expedition, he shows the same care for his sohlicrs, and 
exhibits the same devotion to his country's welfare as in his 
former campaigns. But without following the army as it moved 
for the Canadian line?, it need only be said that, this last invasion 
resulted hi the colonists, under Lord Amherst, iinding their way 
to Montreal; in De Vaudreuil surrendering all Canada; and in 
our hero, Colonel Peter Schuyler, entering victoriously the city, 
and seeing the flag of St. George float in glorious triumph on the 
very gates which but a short time before had kept him in 
captivity. It need hardly be said that peace soon followed, though 
the treaty for the same was not signed till November, 1'762. On 
the capitulation of Canada, Colonel Schuyler immediately returned 
to his home on the banks of the Passaic, where after a brief rest, 
he died, March 7, 1762, in the lifty-second year of his age; 
leaving behind him a reputation for loyalt}^ bravery, benevolence 
and chivalrous honor, unexcelled by any who had been engaged in 
the conflict now triumphantly closed. 

In person, Colonel Schuyler was tall and hardy, rather rough it 
may be at first vievr, yet, after a little acqaintauce revealing deep 
and genuine sincerity. In conversation, he was above all artifice, 
or the traflic of forms; yet he enjoyed friendship with a true 
relish, and in all the relations, what he seemed to be, he was. A 
newspaper of the day concludes its reference to his character in 
these words: "Wherefore, by their fruits ye shall know them." 

Such, friends and fellow-citizens, is a rapid outline of the man, 
and ol his relation to our country, for whom this old Fort was 
called; nor could it have received a name more honorable, or one 
that could awaken throughout the entire country more real, 
genx;ine love and enthusiasm. It may have been, some ofticer 
gave it this name because Colonel Schuyler had ransomed him, 
and thus returned him to his home. Be this, hov/ever, as it may, 
it was the tribute of the province to a bold, brave, determined, 
kind and faithful soldier and citizen. I greatly rejoice that our 
loved city has blended wath its origin a name so noble and so 
historic, and one so free from stain and reproach, that other 
generations, as well as our own, will delight to respect and invest 
it w^ith that accumulating glory which at all periods is so fully its 
due. 

I have dwelt too long upon the events with which Colonel 
Schuyler was associated to think of commenting upon the sug- 
gestiveness of the exercises in which we are now engaged. There 
come to me thoughts upon which I should love to dwell, and that 



188 OLD FOKT SCHUYLEK. 

never can be too frequently alluded to, or too plainly expressed. 
Mv friends, we but too feebly estimate the struggle in which 
many of our honored sires were engaged, the price, the fearful 
price, that has been paid for our country's liberties, and the great 
courage, devotion and sacrifice they represent. A nation 
knows nothing of abiding peace till nerve, muscle, heart, soul, all 
we hold most dear, have been taxed to their utmost, and its altars 
have been made crimson with blood. Under a benignant and 
overruling providence, the peace and prosperity we this day enjoy 
come from the zeal, faith, courage, consecration and suffering of 
those who have gone before. In this world, beautiful as it is, 
peaceful acres represent the price of blood. Would to God that 
we might I'emember this truth, not for vain glory, but to honor 
such as we this day recall, to thank, to reward, to perpetuate. I 
trust that the time has forever passed when the tread of marshalled 
men shall again shake this continent, and this beautiful valley 
shall again resound with the notes of war, either for aggression or 
defense. Our inheritance to-day is peace. Being therefore peace, 
our onl}^ ambition should be to keep it, guard it most jealously 
and sacredly; to be known and remembered for the multitude of 
our virtues, and for the noble aspirations of sanctified and 
cultivated genius. And the more so, since to attain this no city 
need be sacked, no fields devasted, nor blood shed, not even a tear 
fall. Next to suffering and dying for freedom, is the noble duty 
to preserve it. The old Jewish rabbi was right when he said that, 
were the sea ink and the land parchment, the former could not be 
able to describe, nor the latter to comprise all the praise of liberty. 
Liberty is the mother of every virtue and the best nurse of 
genius. The immortal Burke, in one of his impassioned sentences, 
asks, what is liberty without wisdom and Avithout virtue ? We 
answer it is nothing. It is a vessel without a rudder, a charter 
without a seal. Virtuous liberty should be our aim, as it has been 
the desire of all who have coveted its wealth, and who have 
sought its establishment. Every country that submits to be a 
land of slaves, deserves to be a land of ruin. An Italian poet 
once signalized his love of imperial Rome in these noble words : 
" Eternal gods ! may that day be the last on which I forget the 
happiness of Rome." So should we think, and so should we say. 
He who is unwilling to imperil his life, if need be, at the summons 
of holy freedom, does not merit life. He who sincerely loves his 
country leaves the fragrance of a good name to many ages. But 
I can not say what I would. I close, then, by remarking that it 



ADDRESS OF IIEV. DR. HARTLEY. 189 

is written of Cicero, when he arriveil at Athens, lie desired to be 
immediately led to the tomb of Ai-chimedes, no doubt to abandon 
himself to the inspirations which such a classic spot would so 
naturally excite. Let me say, however, at this hour, to all such as 
desire to lend themselves to the higher inspirations of valor, 
courage, faithfulness, zeal, philanthro]>y and all that goes to make 
up the honored citizen, the noble ])atriot, the brave soldier, the 
modest and unassumir:g philanthropist, come and visit this 
triangular site ; raid as you w^alk about its grassy sides, and gaze 
upon these warlike trophies that are to mark it, remember, it is 
thus that a grateful ])eople M^ould hallow the memory of their tried 
servants; and especially, that this city would forever embalm in 
her purest affections and patriotic memories the name of Colonel 
Peter Schuyler; he for whom its first structure w^as called, and 
which had it received his good old Dutch name would have stirred 
the proudest remembrances in every loyal heart, and such, in truth, 
as no African city, though rich in narratiAC and radiant with 
<'lassic fame and glory, could possibly awaken. 

One more period and I shall' have tinished. As a most fitting 
sequel to my remarks, and to commemorate also this happy 
occasion, there will now be flung to the breeze the first flag, bear- 
ing on a swan white field the original State arms, as reconstructed 
iinder the laws of 18S2, and now the adopted insignia and banner of 
our noble commonwealth. As it rises up yonder staff, and 
unfolds itself to be caught and waved and kissed again and again 
by the passing wind, let it receive with its suggestive emblems, 
that joyful salutation from you and from me also, which its first 
appearance in our midst, and among the broad acres in our State, 
so properly merits. 

Hail imperial Banner ! speed tliy virgin way, 
Utica first dotli greet^tliee — this tliy bridal day. 

The benediction was pronounced by Rev. J. J. Emmegahbowh, 
an Ojibway Indian missionary, in his native tongue. 

Throughout the exercises, there were black clouds in the sky, 
and frequent flashes of lightning, but no rain fell, and at 3 p. m. 
the sky was again bright and clear. 




The Oriskany Monument. 



l.KFe '06 



